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© Project SOUND
Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden
Gardening with California Native Plants in Western L.A. CountyProject SOUND – 2015 (our 11th year)
© Project SOUND
Heavenly Heucheras: gardening with our lovely
native Coral Bells
C.M. Vadheim and T. DrakeCSUDH & Madrona Marsh Preserve
Madrona Marsh PreserveDecember 5 & 10, 2015
The genus Heuchera
In the Saxifrage Family
All from the Americas (N./Central)
Commonly called ‘Coral Bells’ (for the flowers) and ‘Alumroots’ (for their astringent, alum-like roots)
Similar in appearance Leaves round to heart-shaped with
long petioles Basel rosette/mound Small, bell-shaped flowers on
wand-like stalk
Hybridize widely in the wild – and in the garden
© Project SOUNDhttp://plants.usda.gov/gallery/large/hepu9_001_lvd.jpg
The Saxifrages - Family Saxifragaceae
© Project SOUNDhttp://montana.plant-life.org/families/Saxifragaceae.htm
Name: ‘stone-breaker’
Most grow either in alpine/arctic areas or in moist, shady forests
~775 known species in 48 genera; taxonomy – difficult, contentious
Most herbaceous perennials/small shrubs
Flowers perfect (bisexual) with 4 or 5 petals and 5 or 10 stamens.
Floral symmetry – radial (star-shaped)
Many used medicinally
Many are garden favorites, particularly for rock/crevice gardens or for shade
http://www.digilibraries.com/html_ebooks/106887/18913/www.digilibraries.com@18913@18913-h@[email protected]
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The Saxifrages - Family Saxifragaceae Mostly Northern
Hemisphere: centers of diversity in the Himalayas, East Asia, and Western North America.
The greatest diversity in the Pacific Northwest of North America
Two lineages: ‘saxifroides’ - true
Saxifrages (arctic/alpine) ‘heucheroids’ – all the rest
© Project SOUND
CA genera (all ‘heucheroids’): Boykinia Heuchera Tellima
Saxifragaceae – genetic analysis gives evidence of an old family
Saxifragaceae began to diversify ~38.37 million years ago (Mya; 95% HPD = 30.99–46.11 Mya) in the Mid-Late Eocene
The two major lineages, the heucheroids and saxifragoids, began to diversify ~30.04 Mya (95% HPD = 23.87–37.15 Mya) and 30.85 Mya (95% HPD = 23.47–39.33 Mya), respectively.
Several geographic radiations within Saxifragaceae: one in eastern Asia and multiple radiations in western North America.
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© Project SOUND
Heucheras
Saxifrage (and Heuchera) paleobotany
Began in Late Oligocene
Warmer temperature Much more humid (less water
tied up in polar ice)
Survived the Quaternary to the present
‘Ice Age’ conditions – several glacial and inter-glacial periods
Over-all temperatures are cooler
Overall drier conditions
© Project SOUND
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© Project SOUND
The genus Heuchera – Coral Bells
All have palmately lobed leaves on long petioles and a thick, woody rootstock.
Grow in varied habitats
There is an extensive array of blossom sizes, shapes, and colors, foliage types, and geographic tolerances.
Make good garden plants
Gardeners and horticulturists have developed a multitude of hybrids between various Heuchera and related species.
© 2004, Ben Legler
The genus Heuchera Taxonomy - difficult until now
Few morphologic characters with sufficient variability
Small flowers Inter-breeding between
populations Much variability even within
populations Unusual geographic distributions
Numbers of accepted species have vacillated between 27 (Rosendahl, 1905) and 72(Rydberg, 1905), with extensive revisions through the years.
Currently n = 43© Project SOUND
http://www.bonap.org/Most%20Number%20of%20Native%20Species/Native%20Species%20per%20Genus.html
What does this geographic distribution suggest?
Taxonomy of the Heucheras 1840 - Torrey and Gray, first proposed
sections 1905 - Rydberg created unranked names that
were afterwards interpreted as subsections (validated at that rank in the 1930s by Engler).
1936 - Rosendahl, Butters, and Lakela (last genus monograph) combined these categories into a system of sections and subsections that has been used by later workers. Their sections, largely based on the Torrey and Gray system, have proved artificial.
1984 - arrangement of the eastern species improved by E.F. Wells.
2014 - taxonomy realigned on the basis of combined DNA and morphology (Folk & Freudenstein, 2014; American Journal of Botany).
2015 - three sections, a tentative fourth, with two species that still could not be placed confidently.
© Project SOUND
Per Axel Rydberg - (1860-1931)
http://sciweb.nybg.org/science2/libr/finding_guide/rydberg.asp.html
Ryan A. Folk
https://sites.google.com/site/ryanheuchera/aboutme
Phylogenomics (phylogeny + genomics) Phylogeny: the study of the evolution of
taxonomic groups Genomics: the use of modern DNA analysis to
study the structure and function of genes Phylogenomics: a rapidly developing field that
uses broad sampling of genetic regions across the genome in order to infer an estimate of the "tree of life" for a set of species.
Four major areas fall under phylogenomics: Prediction of gene function Establishment and clarification of evolutionary
relationships Gene family evolution Prediction and retracing lateral gene transfer.
© Project SOUND
"CollapsedtreeLabels-simplified" by Original uploader was User:TimVickers, SVG conversion by User:User_A1 - Own work (Original text: Self made.). Licensed under Public Domain via Commons -https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:CollapsedtreeLabels-simplified.svg#/media/File:CollapsedtreeLabels-simplified.svg
Phylogenomics has recently changed the taxonomy of the Heucheras
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Maximum likelihood cladogram for the total-evidence data set
(morphology + DNA) Inset: ML cladogram with proportional ML branch lengths; legend: major
taxonomic groups in the current study.
Ryan A. Folk, and John V. Freudenstein Am. J. Bot. 2014;101:1532-1550
www.amjbot.org
Eastern Heucheras
Clear Pacific Northwest origin for Heuchera itself.
Eastern species: At least once from the
Pacific Northwest At least twice from Rockies?
© Project SOUND
http://www.bonap.org/Most%20Number%20of%20Native%20Species/Native%20Species%20per%20Genus.html
Sect. Heuchera
• Subsect. Heuchera (= subsect. Americanae; across the eastern US)• H. americana• H. caroliniana• H. pubescens• H. alba• H. longiflora• H. richardsonii
• Subsect. Parvifoliae (Great Basin, southern Basin and Range, northern Rockies)• H. parvifolia• H. wootonii• H. soltisii
• Subsect. Novomexicanae (Southern Basin and Range; white flowers)• H. novomexicana• H. glomerulata• H. eastwoodiae• H. inconstans
© Project SOUND
13 California native Heuchera species Heuchera abramsii – San Gabriel alumroot* Heuchera brevistaminea - Mt. laguna alumroot* Heuchera caespitosa - Urn-flowered alumroot* Heuchera chlorantha - Green flowered alumroot Heuchera cylindrica - Roundleaf alumroot Heuchera hirsutissima - Shaggy haired alumroot* Heuchera maxima - Island alumroot* Heuchera merriamii - Merriam's alumroot Heuchera micrantha - Alum root Heuchera parishii - Parish's alumroot* Heuchera parvifolia - Littleleaf alumroot Heuchera pilosissima – Seaside alum root Heuchera rubescens - Pink alumroot
*rare, with limited range© Project SOUND
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Parsimony reconstructions of ancestral character states with
legends, based on the maximum likelihood total-evidence tree.
Ryan A. Folk, and John V. FreudensteinAm. J. Bot. 2014;101:1532-1550
www.amjbot.org
California species
Sect. Rhodoheuchera
© Project SOUND
• Subsect. Hemsleyanae (Sierra Madre of Mexico)• H. longipetala• H. acutifolia• H. mexicana
• Subsect. Rosendahliae (northern Sierra Madre Occidentale)• H. rosendahlii• H. wellsiae
• Subsect. Rubescentes• H. rubescens• H. parishii (may fit better in the following section)
• Subsect. Elegantes (Transverse Ranges of California, and the nearby Laguna Mountains)
• H. abramsii• H. elegans• H. caespitosa• H. hirsutissima• H. brevistaminea• H. pulchella (placement tentative)
• Subsect. Sanguineae (primarily Sierra Madre Occidental, outliers in the northernmost Sierra Madre Oriental, southernmost Basin and Range)
• H. lakelae• H. sanguinea
Sect. Holochloa
• Subsect. Villosae (unglaciated eastern US)• H. villosa• H. puberula• H. missouriensis• H. parviflora
• Subsect. Micranthae (Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada)• H. micrantha• H. maxima• H. pilosissima
• Subsect. Cylindricae (Northern Rockies and adjacent areas)• H. chlorantha• H. cylindrica
© Project SOUND
Saxifrage (and Heuchera) paleobotany
Began in Late Oligocene
Warmer temperature Much more humid (less water
tied up in polar ice)
Survived the Quaternary to the present
‘Ice Age’ conditions – several glacial and inter-glacial periods
Over-all temperatures are cooler
Overall drier conditions
© Project SOUND
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Three main strategies to survive drastic environmental changes
1. Move – to places where conditions are better
2. Evolve – change so as to survive the changed situations
3. Hang on – in places that continue to have the right conditions
© Project SOUND
*Tall alumroot - Heuchera chlorantha
© Project SOUND
© Rod Gilbert
Native to forests of WA, OR
Sect. Holochloa• Subsect. Villosae (unglaciated eastern US)
• H. villosa• H. puberula• H. missouriensis• H. parviflora
• Subsect. Micranthae (Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada)• H. micrantha• H. maxima• H. pilosissima
• Subsect. Cylindricae (Northern Rockies and adjacent areas)• H. chlorantha• H. cylindrica
Incertae sedis• H. glabra• H. merriamii
© Project SOUND
© Project SOUND
*Roundleaf alumroot – Heuchera cylindrica
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British Columbia and Alberta south to northeastern California and east to northern Nevada, Wyoming, and Montana.
In CA – Modoc county only
© Project SOUND
*Roundleaf alumroot – Heuchera cylindrica
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_cpn.pl?HECY2
© 2012, Ray Izumi
© Project SOUND
Roundleaf alumroot: lush-appearing foliage Size:
~ 1 ft tall 1-2 ft wide
Growth form: Mounded, evergreen perennial Foliage all basal; fairly tight
rosette Foliage smooth to glandular/
hairy
Foliage: Medium green, lobed leaves
with succulent appearance Lush, tidy appearance
Roots: short taproot - 18 inches or less
© 2004, Ben Legler
Flowers in the genus Heuchera
© Project SOUNDhttp://botany.csdl.tamu.edu/FLORA/301Manhart/Dicots/Rosidae/Sax/Sax.html
http://www.geo.arizona.edu/palynology/geos581/lec_14.html
Hypanthium (floral cup) is prominent –green, white or pink colored; shape varies from urn- to bell- or trumpet-shaped
Petals are often diminutive, white or pink
Male sexual parts (stamens) either extend out beyond petals (are exserted) or do not.
© Project SOUND
Flowers: a bit different Blooms: April-Aug. – spring (April-
June) in S. California
Flowers: On upright stalks above the
foliage (typical for genus) Flowers clustered at top of
stalks; short flower stems Flowers cup-shaped; yellow
green hypanthium, yellow-white petals
Sexual parts internal Hummingbirds & bumblebees
Seeds: small, in dry capsule
Vegetative reproduction: via rhizomes
http://www.answers.com/topic/dudleya
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© Project SOUND
Remember: this is a Pacific Northwest plant Soils:
Texture: any well-drained soil pH: any local
Light: part-shade to shade; full sun only works on N. CA coast.
Water: Winter: plenty Summer: keep soil semi-moist;
Water Zone 2-3 (let dry out a little between waterings)
Fertilizer: fine with occasional fertilizer and organic mulches
Other: look for mealybugs and mildrew in warm, damp conditions
© 2012, G. D. Carr
© Project SOUND
Perfect for a green oasis Watered shady beds with ferns,
Iris, perennials, grass-like plants
Along walkways in a woodsy garden
Rock gardens; shady slopes; groundcover under watered trees
As accent/evergreen in containershttp://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HECY2
© 2011, Ron Bockelman
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Heuchera_cylindrica_4706.JPG
Heuchera cylindrica ‘Greenfinch’ Available from Annie’s Annuals
Dark green, mottled leaves – pretty groundcover or foliage plant
36” tall (with flower stalks), 24” wide;
Long-stemmed green flowers for floral arrangements – quite the thing!
USDA zones 4-10
© Project SOUND
http://www.appeltern.nl/nl/plantenencyclopedie/heuchera_cylindrica_greenfinch_-_purperklokje
http://www.heuchera.org/Hostapagina's/G/greenfinch.htm
‘Green Ivory’ has flowers that are ivory-colored
http://bloomsofbressinghamplants.com/us/Gardeners/Variety/Heuchera_Green_Ivory.html&s=1&genus=&common=&variety=
Why use the ‘tall green’ Heucheras?
© Project SOUND
To provide vertical interest (much as we use grass-like plants in drier gardens)
http://www.seedsite.eu/product/heuchera-cylindrica
To create a woodsy feel, like the Pacific Northwest
http://zaaisite.nl/info/heuchera_cylindrica.htm
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Heucheras can be eaten as food
Young leaves of alumroot are edible when steamed or boiled
They are mildly astringent (drying and tissue-contracting), so may leave you thirsty.
© Project SOUND
The lowland, coastal Heucheras of CA look more like the garden Heucheras
© Project SOUND
© Br. Alfred Brousseau, Saint Mary's College
Sect. Holochloa• Subsect. Villosae (unglaciated eastern US)
• H. villosa• H. puberula• H. missouriensis• H. parviflora
• Subsect. Micranthae (Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada)• H. micrantha• H. maxima• H. pilosissima
• Subsect. Cylindricae (Northern Rockies and adjacent areas)• H. chlorantha• H. cylindrica
Incertae sedis• H. glabra• H. merriamii
© Project SOUND
© Project SOUND
Small-flower Coral Bells/Crevice Alumroot –Heuchera micrantha
Charles Webber © California Academy of Sciences
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© Project SOUND
Small-flower Coral Bells –Heuchera micrantha
Native in the inner coastal areas of much of California, through the Sierras and Cascades up into to Idaho and British Columbia.
Likes to grow in crevices and in wet rocky areas
Closed-cone Pine Forest, Mixed-evergreen Forest and Redwood Forest.
In other words, more forest-like than we have here in western L.A. Co.
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_JM_treatment.pl?Heuchera+micranthahttp://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=4171
http://www.swsbm.com/Maps/Maps.html
© Project SOUND
Small-flower Coral Bells is a petite Heuchera
Size: 1-2 ft tall 1-2 ft wide Slow-growing
Growth form: Herbaceous perennial Mounded clump
Foliage: Leaves basal, hairy, medium
green with distinctive red veins. Neat, pleasant and showy ‘woodsy’ look
Roots: thick, woody© Br. Alfred Brousseau, Saint Mary's College
© Project SOUND
Plant Requirements Soils: Texture: light to medium soils;
good drainage pH: any local
Light: Full sun to light shade Some shade probably better in
our area
Water: Winter: needs good rains Summer: likes somewhat damp
soils – Zone 2-3 probably best
Fertilizer: Best grown in organically
rich soils Add humus; organic (leaf)
mulches
http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wlr/pi/Go-Native/PlantDisplay.aspx?PlantID=127&PhotoID=366
© Project SOUND
Flowers are lovely when massed
Blooms: usually Apr-June in S. CA gardens
Flowers: Whitish - Pink, tiny, in nodding
clusters along stems Dainty-looking Very showy when massed;
drifts of flowering stalks
Seeds: Tiny Fairly easy to propagate
Vegetative reproduction: divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring.Gladys Lucille Smith © California Academy of Sciences
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Dividing Heucheras Divide 3-4 year old Heucheras in
spring (when actively growing)
Dig up the clump
Break it into smaller clumps, either by hand or using a stout knife; be sure that each clump has a good root system
Replant divisions, keep well-watered
Discard old woody material
Dividing encourages new growth and more abundant flowering – it also propagates new plants.
© Project SOUND
http://gardening.lohudblogs.com/2007/11/17/dividing-heuchera-for-a-new-garden/
Heucheras are definite candidates for small gardens
Great in large pots and planters
Nice flower for the shaded rock garden.
Excellent for edging, borders
Good ground cover for a woodland garden
© 2004, Ben Legler
One of the few groundcovers that will grow under walnut trees.
http://www.calfloranursery.com/plants/heuchera-micrantha
http://tmousecmouse.blogspot.com/2013_05_01_archive.html
Heuchera micrantha var. diversifolia 'Palace Purple'
Source seed was actually the southeast U.S. native Heuchera villosa var. macrorrhiza
Originated in England from seed imported from a U.S. Botanic Garden; introduced to American gardens in 1986
'Palace Purple‘ - first grown at the Queen's palace at Kew Gardens.
First Heuchera to be widely grown here for its dramatic foliage. Received the Perennial Plant Association Plant-of-the-Year award in 1991.
Excellent choice for edge of the border, or in containers (dramatic ‘filler’ plant).
© Project SOUNDhttp://notanothergardeningblog.com/2012/09/17/holy-h-batman/
The love affair with purple foliage
Mostly an Eastern/European gardening phenomenon
Often based on Eastern species and crosses with Tiarellas
Has kept many plant breeders in business
Fills a need in shady gardens that may be a little gloomy in summers with cloudy skies
Contrasting foliage (of the lush variety) is used more in areas with more rainfall
© Project SOUND
http://leef-tuinen.nl/natuurlijke-achtertuin-oisterwijk/
http://livingfashion.co.nz/variety/tiarella-appalachian-trail/
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The leaf colors are amazing…
© Project SOUND
http://www.greatbiggreenhouse.com/Expert-Advice/Plant-Listings/Perennial-Flowers/Heuchera.aspx
…but they look more appropriate in moist gardens
© Project SOUND
http://thegardeningcook.com/heuchera/
© Project SOUND
*Seaside alumroot – Heuchera pilosissima
http://www.larnerseeds.com/file/heuchera-pilosissimajpg
Endemic to coastal CA from Del Norte Co. in the far north (and S. OR) to Santa Barbara Co.
Wooded, coastal slopes and coastal bluffs below 1000 ft.
© Project SOUND
*Seaside alumroot – Heuchera pilosissima
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_cpn.pl?HEPI3
https://www.flickr.com/photos/polylepis/5731442786
http://www.mostlynatives.com/sites/default/files/heucherapilosissima.jpg
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© Project SOUND
Seaside heuchera: medium-size & hairy
Size: 1-2 ft tall 1-2 ft wide
Growth form: Evergreen, herbaceous
perennial Mounded form – spreads
slowly via short rhizomes
Foliage: Leaves medium green, grape-
like, rounded with slight lobing Long petioles All very hairy, glandular
Roots: shallow
© Project SOUND
Flowers: unusual shape
Blooms: spring - usually Mar-May in S. CA gardens
Flowers: On upright stalk typical of
genus Flowers small, urn-shaped Hypanthium (floral cup)
green to pink, very hairy Petals small, white-pink Sexual parts exerted Attract hummingbirds
Seeds: Many small, in dry capsule
©2007 Neal Kramer
© Project SOUND
Requirements: typical for N. Coastal species Soils:
Texture: well-drained soils; fine in sand pH: slightly acidic (5.0-7.0) best
Light: Part-shade to quite shady in S. CA
(grows in forests right along the damp Northern coast)
Water: Winter: needs good rains/irrigation Summer: moist soils – probably the most
water-loving native Heuchera
Fertilizer: low needs, but yearly dose of ½ strength fertilizer wouldn’t hurt
Other: organic mulches fine
© Project SOUND
One of the best for places with regular water
Shady borders, planters Lining walkways Woodland-themed gardens As an attractive pot plant
https://sites.google.com/site/ryanheuchera/heuchera-pilosissima
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/7020331907
http://www.larnerseeds.com/file/heuchera-pilosissimajpg
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Native coastal Heucheras work well in gardens
Cultural requirements ‘garden friendly’: Soils: adaptable; heavy clays can be
problem pH: neutral or slightly acid Water: moderate to regular
Size/shape is good for bed borders
Evergreen foliage
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.wmwd.watersavingplants.com/GWImage.php?image=199&source=gt
‘Lillian’s Pink’ (H. pilosissima x H. sanguinea)
Selected for the garden by Ron Lusko; introduced by Cal Flora Nursery
Named after Lillian Henningsen, (first appeared in as a chance seedling in her garden).
1-2 ft. tall & wide; upright compact habit
Larger, darker flowers than most Heuchera (due to H. sanguinea parent)
Excellent in part-shade; a bit more drought tolerant than H. pilosissima (occasional/ moderate water)
© Project SOUND
http://www.mostlynatives.com/plants/heuchera-lillians-pink
What’s the appropriate mulch for heucheras?
As always, depends on what is the natural mulch:
Northern Forest species –mosses; leaf mulch
Coastal Forest species –organic mulch, but not too thick
Crevice/S. CA species – gravel or other inorganic mulch
Always trade-off between the benefits of mulch and the risk of fungal disease (roots & leaves)
© Project SOUND
Heuchera merriamii : a mystery solved
This species occurs in the Siskiyou Mountains of northern California.
Flowers are very similar to those of H. maxima and H. pilosissima
While previously these species have been classified together, they do not appear to be closely related.
© Project SOUND
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Sect. Holochloa• Subsect. Villosae (unglaciated eastern US)
• H. villosa• H. puberula• H. missouriensis• H. parviflora
• Subsect. Micranthae (Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada)• H. micrantha• H. maxima• H. pilosissima
• Subsect. Cylindricae (Northern Rockies and adjacent areas)• H. chlorantha• H. cylindrica
Incertae sedis• H. glabra• H. merriamii
© Project SOUND
Heucheras grow in several CA mountain ranges
Cascade/Klamath/Modoc Coastal Ranges Sierra Nevada Range____________________
Transverse Ranges Peninsular Ranges
© Project SOUND
http://www.sanandreasfault.org/CaGeo.html
H. maxima is unique among S. California Heucheras
Native to the N. Channel Islands Is similar – and related to – the Central/Northern
CA species in Section Holochloa© Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
Island Alumroot – Heuchera maxima
J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
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Island Alumroot in nature
Moist shady areas in chaparral and coastal sage scrub on N. Channel Islands: Moist, shady, north-facing
canyon bottoms, Canyon walls Moist cliffs Seacliffs
Low elevations
http://www.centerforplantconservation.org/ASP/CPC_ProfileImage.asp?FN=2240a
Island Alumroot: somewhat similar to northern coastal species
Growth form: clumping – low mounds of leaves on long petioles
Foliage: leaves rounded or heart-shaped, may be variegated
Roots: long taproot – more drought tolerant than non-CA species
Flowers: late winter-mid-spring White to light pink Bell-shaped On long stems well above the foliage
Growth requirements – Island Alumroot Sun: full sun on the coast, part shade
anywhere Soils:
Any well-drained – sandy is best Any pH except very acidic
Nutrients: organic supplements, mulches are useful
Water: Regular water to establish Two to four times a month (especially
in summer and at inland locations) to keep plants green and lengthen bloom.
Are fairly drought tolerant in shady sites – just look a little raggedy with summer drought
http://www.gardenbuddies.com/forum/messages/4314/6145.html
Regular maintenance of Heuchers
Mulch with appropriate mulch Watch for known pests/diseases:
Slugs/snails Mealybugs Scale insects Fungal disease (root) Mildew
Remove dead foliage and flowering stalks
Fertilize containerized plants (and those grown in sandy soils) with ½ strength fertilizer once a year
Divide every 3-5 years – when flowering decreases
© Project SOUND
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Versatile plant in the garden Woodland and shade gardens or borders
For cut flowers
Habitat for bees and hummingbirds
As a groundcover in shady parts of the garden, including under trees (oaks & pines)
In pots & containers (2 ft deep or more)
http://www.elnativogrowers.com/Photographs_page/heuchera_maxima.htm
http://www.yerbabuenanursery.com/viewplant.php?pid=0164 http://www.plantmaster.com/gardens/eplant.php?plantnum=24193
Design: Mass plantings or accent plant?
Mass plantings – utilize the principle of repetition
Accent plantings - utilize the principle of contrast
All Heucheras are splendid when used either way
© Project SOUND
Floral color – two looks from Heucheras
Modern architecture Dark areas of the garden With other, competing floral
colors
Old-fashioned, cottage garden Natural landscapes (true
California look); woodsy look
© Project SOUND
‘in your face’ red
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/325033298082321235/ https://www.sbbg.org/easy-8
‘soothing and natural’ pink
Coastal Heucheras: perfect choice for a woodsy garden
© Project SOUND
http://watersmartsdlandscaping.org/GWImage.php?image=70&source=gt&index=6&page=1
Heuchera & Wild strawberry (Fragaria)
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65eAbg4g7aU/UXNz8QW-HlI/AAAAAAAAHPc/coVuxLJdql0/s1600/aristolochia-heuchera-fern-closer.jpg
Border a lawn for the feel of a woodland opening
http://bgm.stanford.edu/groups/grounds/special/ca_native_chart
Pair with water-loving native ferns
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Heucheras & grass-like plants are naturals
together N. CA grass species Sedges (Carex) species Rushes (Juncus) species
© Project SOUND
http://www.junescott.net/garden-friendly-california-natives/
http://www.pasadena.watersavingplants.com/GWImage.php?image=885&source=gg&index=2&page=6
‘Opal’ & ‘Wendy’https://thehumanfootprint.wordpress.com/2011/04/18/more-great-reliable-plants-for-california-landscapes/
http://www.thegardengeek.com/content/heuchera-maxima-giant-heuchera http://www.laspilitas.com/garden/Native-plants-in-containers.html
Understated elegance as an
accent plant
Heucheras in containers
No special potting soil except for those that need extra gravel
Shallow roots – don’t need a deep container (except H. maxima)
Elegant alone – or in mixed containers
© Project SOUND
http://www.enjoycontainergardening.com/heucheras-in-container-gardens.html
http://awaytogarden.com/the-best-heuchera-and-how-to-grow-them/
Heucheras and moisture-loving native ferns make a fetching combination
Heucheras have the potential to hybridize
Doesn’t occur often in the wilds due to geographic separation
Happens all the time in gardens
Hybridizers also make specific crosses, choosing parent plants with particular characteristics
H. maxima is often chosen:
Larger overall size Large leaves Large, open flowers Relative drought tolerance
© Project SOUND
Heuchera maxima (tall), H. sanguinea (dark pink) & H. elegans (lighter pink)
http://kristamaxwell.com/garden/photos.html
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The quest for a better pink….
Native plants will frequently produce hybrids with closely related exotic plants. Quite a number of such cases are well documented.
Heuchera sanguinea (from Arizona) has hybridized with the following natives:
H. elegans, H. hirsutissima, H. maxima H. pilosissima H. merriamii (pringlei)
© Project SOUND
*Arizona Coral Bells - Heuchera sanguinea
Native to S.e. AZ, s.w. NM, N. Mexico
Grows in moist, shady, foothill woodlands
Has the most outrageous bright pink/red flowers – used to produce red cultivars
© Project SOUND
http://loghouseplants.com/plants/shop/heuchera-sanguinea-ruby-bells-coral-bells/
‘Ruby Bells’
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/74098356341543411/
http://notanothergardeningblog.com/tag/foliage-plants/
Lee Lenz and the ‘RSABG Hybrids’ In the 1950s, Lee Lenz (Rancho Santa
Ana Botanic Garden) started hybridizing Heuchera maxima with Heuchera sanguinea (Arizona/NM species) to create garden hybrids.
Became known as the "Rancho Santa Ana hybrids". Breeding program continues.
The hybrids inherited their large stature and tall flowering stems from Heuchera maxima while getting larger indidual flower size and darker colors from Heuchera sanguinea.
Exibited hybrid vigor, making them great garden plants. In the garden, they are essentially treated like H. maxima: shade and some summer water.
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3389/santa-ana-cardinal-coral-bells/
Heuchera 'Genevieve'
Introduced in 1974; named after the wife of Percy Everett, who was the garden horticulturalist at the time
Dark green leaves that have silvery markings with magenta flowers.
Renowned for its pink flowers, strong stature and very long bloom season.
© Project SOUND
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eastbaywilds/8117898828
http://www.magicgrowers.com/plantDetail.php?plantId=0000980175
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Heuchera 'Opal'
One of the original Lenz hybrids
Soft hairy pale green leaves
Clean white flowers with the hint of a rose blush.
Use ‘Opal’ in woodland settings, in mass under trees, as an edging or border plant.
© Project SOUND
http://www.magicgrowers.com/plantDetail.php?plantId=0000980499
http://www.sb.watersavingplants.com/eplant.php?plantnum=207&return=l11
Heuchera ‘Santa Ana Cardinal’
Robust, durable plant introduced in 1958.
Large size (about 2 feet tall by 2 feet wide)
Shiny green foliage, similar to Heuchera 'Genevieve' but the gray mottling on the leaves is not as pronounced.
Vibrant red flowers on stems up to 3 feet tall.
Hardy to about 10 degrees F.
© Project SOUND
http://www.gardeningwithnatives.com/pcc_planting.html
http://wildsuburbia.blogspot.com/2010_11_01_archive.html
Heuchera 'Susanna'
Introduced in 1974 and named for the garden's founder, Susanna Bixby Bryant
Shiny green foliage with large leaves
Profusion of vibrant red flowers on stems up to 3 feet high in spring and summer.
© Project SOUND
http://www.suncrestnurseries.com/calnatives_show.php?id=heucsu
http://www.elnativogrowers.com/Photographs_page/heu_SU.htm
Heuchera ‘Wendy’ Introduced by John Dourley
(RSABG) in 1984. Open rosettes of pale green leaves
and elegant tall sprays bearing rosy-pink flowers.
Not extremely long lived but worth replanting every 3-5 years.
© Project SOUND
http://godetia.com/dirt/closet/heuchera.jpg https://thehumanfootprint.wordpress.com/tag/california-natives/
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Heuchera 'Rosada'
Not a Rancho Santa Ana introduction
Similar to 'Wendy' but has smaller soft pink and white flowers on a shorter stems
Durable old cultivar that is thought to have been in the University of California, Davis Arboretum for over 30 years before introduced to horticulture in 1991.
© Project SOUND
http://www.elnativogrowers.com/Photographs_page/heu_RO.htm
http://www.goldrushnursery.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/plants.plantDetail/plant_id/283/index.htm
Sect. Holochloa• Subsect. Villosae (unglaciated eastern US)
• H. villosa• H. puberula• H. missouriensis• H. parviflora
• Subsect. Micranthae (Coast Ranges, Sierra Nevada)• H. micrantha• H. maxima• H. pilosissima
• Subsect. Cylindricae (Northern Rockies and adjacent areas)• H. chlorantha• H. cylindrica
Incertae sedis• H. glabra• H. merriamii
© Project SOUND
The S. CA Heucheras: look closely
With the exception of H. maxima, all the rest are alpine species. How did that happen?
© Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
Three main strategies to survive drastic environmental changes
1. Move – to places where conditions are better
2. Evolve – change so as to survive the changed situations
3. Hang on – in places that continue to have the right conditions
© Project SOUND
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The S. CA Heucheras: water-loving plants in a climate that became dry
© Project SOUND
Coastal species (Sect. Holochloa) became truly coastal
The rest ultimately retreated to very specialized alpine places, where water was still available
H. caespitosa has the widest geographic distribution of the S. CA species
© Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
It also has a wide elevation distribution
© Project SOUND
* Tufted alumroot – Heuchera caespitosa
* Tufted alumroot – Heuchera caespitosa
© Project SOUND
http://herbaria4.herb.berkeley.edu/eflora_display.php?tid=91750
Western Transverse Ranges in Kern, San Bernardino, Tulare, and Ventura counties, and in the Outer South Coast Ranges, southern Sierra Nevada foothills, and southern Sierra Nevada
Rocky areas, 4500'-8000', San Gabriel Mts
Red Fir Forest, Yellow Pine Forest
In so many ways, Tufted alumroot bridges the coastal species to the west and the alpine species of the eastern Transverse and Peninsular Ranges
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AKA: Urn-flowered alumroot
Attribution: Alice Eastwood
One of the rare Heucheras.
Previously lumped with some other S. CA species into H. elegans - but those recently classified as H. caespitosa are different:
H. caespitosa is tetraploid.
There are also some subtle aspects of floral form that distinguish them, all of which require fresh or rehydrated material.
© Project SOUND
* Tufted alumroot – Heuchera caespitosa
Ryan Folk (2011-2015).
© Project SOUND
Tufted alumroot: a smaller, mountain form
Size: < 1 ft tall < 1 ft wide
Growth form: Low-growing evergreen
perennial; diminutive Extends via rhizomes; mat-
forming with age
Foliage: Medium to darker green Leaves rounded, geranium-like Shorter petioles
Roots: not too deep; doesn’t need much soil
The mountain native tend to be very cold-resistant. But many of them (particularly those with wider elevation range) still do well in our lowland gardens
© Project SOUND
Charming flowers Blooms: May-July
Flowers: On typical long flower spikes Hypantheum very elongated Pale pink color overall; petals
are large for genus Extremely showy species –
used often in hybrids Great for hummingbirds
Seeds: Small & brown in dry capsule
http://www.hazmac.biz/041018/041018HeucheraCaespitosa.html
© Project SOUND
Plant of rocky slopes Soils:
Texture: well-drained, rocky best pH: any local
Light: part-shade to shady in western L.A. county.
Water: Winter: needs plenty Summer: twice a month to regular
Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils; fertilize container plants ½ strength, once a year in spring.
Other: Inorganic mulch Prune off dead leaves, stems Watch for mealy bugs, mildew Plant on berm for better drainage
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© Project SOUND
Small, Tufted alumroot Lovely choice for containers Tuck into crevices between
rocks, in dry-stone walls Shady groundcover on slopes Rock gardens; perennial beds
http://jaysullivan.org/socal/alumre.htm
Heuchera caespitosa ‘Bella Blanca’
Selected and introduced by Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
2-4 in. high; 4-8 in. wide; bright green leaves spreading to form a very dense mat.
6-10 inch stems display snow white flowers in late spring.
Long blooming season with additional moisture.
Compact growth and small size make it perfect for container and rock gardens.
© Project SOUND
http://www.suncrestnurseries.com/calnatives_show.php?id=heucebb
AKA Heuchera elegans ‘Bella Blanca’
Lots was happening during the Pleistocene (Ice Age – 1.8 mya to 10,000 ya)
To the North, severe climatic changes had major impacts on fauna and flora.
Climate effects were less severe in California, but still significant:
5 major glacial episodes: Sierras Nevadas The L.A. Basin had periods with at least
twice as much rain as currently (more like the climate of Monterrey – cooler and foggier)
Oak & pine woodlands extended down to lower elevations in western S. CA
The climate was probably pretty good for the S. CA Heucheras
© Project SOUND
http://www.perceptions.couk.com/glacials.html
http://geologycafe.com/erosion/glaciers.html
But conditions varied widely between glacial and inter-glacial periods…and S. CA ultimately became
mostly warm & dry
Except for little islands (N. Channel Islands; ‘sky islands’ in the mountains), the conditions were no longer ideal for Heucheras
© Project SOUND
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The easternmost local Heucheras…
Demonstrate the role of isolated ‘islands’ in the development of species © Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
Sect. Rhodoheuchera
© Project SOUND
• Subsect. Hemsleyanae (Sierra Madre of Mexico)• H. longipetala• H. acutifolia• H. mexicana
• Subsect. Rosendahliae (northern Sierra Madre Occidentale)• H. rosendahlii• H. wellsiae
• Subsect. Rubescentes• H. rubescens• H. parishii (may fit better in the following section)
• Subsect. Elegantes (Transverse Ranges of California, and the nearby Laguna Mountains)
• H. abramsii• H. elegans• H. caespitosa• H. hirsutissima• H. brevistaminea• H. pulchella (placement tentative)
• Subsect. Sanguineae (primarily Sierra Madre Occidental, outliers in the northernmost Sierra Madre Oriental, southernmost Basin and Range)
• H. lakelae• H. sanguinea
The S. CA mountain species are different enough to warrant a separate Section
Growth characteristics differ from their coastal siblings
Their cold tolerance is phenomenal
And their growth needs require that we treat them somewhat differently than the coastal species
© Project SOUND
© Project SOUND
*San Gabriel alumroot – Heuchera abramsii
©2005 Charles E. Jones
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© Project SOUND
*San Gabriel alum root – Heuchera abramsii
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_cpn.pl?HEAB
Ryan Folk (2011-2015) Ryan Folk (2011-2015)
San Gabriel Mountains (San Antonio Peak area)
Grows among the rocks and crevices high in the coniferous forests, at 9,000 -11,000m above sea level
Good cold tolerance – true alpine species
© Project SOUND
Heuchera abramsii: a tiny alpine species
Size: 6 inches tall to 1 ft wide (spreading)
Growth form: Mat-like herbaceous
perennial – spreads via rhizomes
Foliage all very low; winter deciduous
Foliage: Leaves rounded, deeply-
lobed Geranium-like; few hairs
Roots: relatively shallow
http://navigate.botanicgardens.org/weboi/oecgi2.exe/INET_ECM_DispPl?NAMENUM=48599#images
https://sites.google.com/site/ryanheuchera/heuchera-abramsii
http://tchester.org/temp/110721/heuchera/heuchera_abramsii_1_3_crop_70.jpg
© Project SOUND
Flowers among the prettiest in CA Heucheras
Blooms: summer in its native habitat; usually spring (May-June) at lower elevations
Flowers: Dense flowers on upright flower
stalks (typical of genus) Hypantheum tubular/urn-
shaped and very bright pink. Petals white/pale pink Very showy in bloom – amazing! Attracts hummingbirds
Seeds: many small, dark brown seeds in dry capsule.
http://www.calflora.net/bloomingplants/abramsalumroot.html
© Project SOUND
Plant Requirements Soils: Texture: excellent drainage pH: any local
Light: Shade to part-sun
Water: Winter: plenty of water Summer: don’t over-water; let
dry out between waterings (Water Zone 2)
Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils; ½ strength fertilizer once a year in containers.
Other: gravel mulch; don’t water in hot, moist conditions.
http://www.wrightmanalpines.com/plant/heuchera-abramsii
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Perfect plant for rock & crevice gardens
As a unique specimen plant in containers
In a rock garden
Tucked into crevices in a crevice garden or dry-stone wallhttp://wildgingerfarm.com/plant-list/plants-f---h/heuchera-abramsii.html
Growing Heucheras from seed
Harvest seeds after the seed pods become dry but before the pods have opened. Seeds are tiny – don’t worry about removing all the chaff
Ideal growing medium: 1:1 seed starter mix and vermiculite or perlite. Moisten until damp.
Sprinkle seeds thinly – don’t over-seed.
Water with fine mist
Cover pot(s) with clear plastic bag
Keep moist in bright shade
Be careful to not damage root when repotting
© Project SOUND
http://www.hazmac.biz/041018/041018HeucheraCaespitosa.html
The quest for the perfect dainty hybrid
In the 1980s Dara Emory (Santa Barbara Botanic Garden) used small montane species native to California crossed with Heuchera sanguinea
The results became known as the "Canyon hybrids“
‘Canyon Delight’ and ‘Canyon Pink’ were the first products of Dara Emery’s breeding program to develop small-leafed, compact coral bells with showy flowers. Both are F1 crosses of H. elegans and a H. sanguinea hybrid.
© Project SOUND
https://www.sbbg.org/classes-events/lectures-symposia/dara-emery-2015
Heuchera ‘Canyon Pink’
Low growing with gray mottled lobed leaves.
Flowers are a rose pink with lighter centers and the bloom period occurs in the spring and summer.
Created by Dara Emery; introduced by the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden in 1985. This was the first of the gardens Heuchera introductions and remains as one of the best.
Heuchera sanguinea X H. rubescens.
Several of the more recent Quartet Series such as H. 'Canyon Melody', H. 'Canyon Duet' and H. 'Canyon Chimes' have 'Canyon Pink' as one parent.
© Project SOUND
http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=834
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‘Canyon Delight’ Early Dara Emory hybrid
Small (4-6"H x 6-12"W) with a 1" x 1" green leaf
Deep pink flower.
Grows and performs best in drier shady conditions. It will tolerant regular water in well drained soil.
© Project SOUND
http://www.faroutflora.com/tag/heuchera-canyon-delight/
https://www.sbbg.org/explore-garden/garden-sections-displays/arroyohttp://www.baynatives.com/plants/Heuchera/
The ‘Canyon Series’ Heucheras
Dara Emery made many crosses with H. sanguinea and our small mountain natives. The best were introduced by Santa Barbara Botanic Garden.
Dozens of beautiful hybrids which combined the dense, small hummocks of the natives with flower colors ranging from white to deep, rosy pink.
All have smaller flowers than H. sanguinea, but usually many more
Do well in gardens given shade and regular water
© Project SOUND
‘Canyon Chimes’ – a later hybrid
https://www.sbbg.org/learn-discover/gardening-with-natives/sbbg-cultivars
Heuchera ‘Canyon Quartet Series’ Dara Emery hybrids
created in 1993; released by the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden after Mr. Emery's death.
Patents have been applied for by the Garden on all of these cultivars.
© Project SOUND
Canyon Duet' - bicolored flowers 'Canyon Bell' - Shorter red flowers in middle of wheelbarrow 'Canyon Chimes' Tall red flowers in front of the wheelbarrow 'Canyon Melody' - Smaller plant pink with exerted white
Heuchera x abramsii ‘Canyon Duet’ (PP13,280) Dara Emery hybrid between ‘Canyon
Delight’ and H. abramsii
Released in 2001 as part of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden ‘Quartet’ Series.
Mat-like evergreen perennial 5 inches tall by 1 foot or more wide with small, 1 ¼-inch wide leaves.
Bi-colored flowers of dark pink and white rise above the foliage on 12- 18 inch tall stems in mid spring.
Shade to part-sun/regular summer water
Tolerant of a wide variety of soil types. Hardy to around 10° F.
© Project SOUND
http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=9157.75
http://www.learn2grow.com/plants/heuchera-canyon-duet-canyon-series-pp13280-images-large-134192/
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The easternmost local Heucheras…
Demonstrate the concept of islands and speciation© Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
*Parish (Mill Creek) alumroot - Heuchera parishii
© Project SOUND
©2010 Gary A. Monroe
Native to San Bernardino Mountains; available from Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
© Project SOUND
* Shaggy haired alumroot – Heuchera hirsutissima
Peninsular Ranges (San Jacinto Mountains, n Santa Rosa Mtns)
Upper montane Red Fir coniferous forest, subalpine forest, 7000'-11,000'
© Project SOUND
* Shaggy haired alumroot – Heuchera hirsutissima
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_cpn.pl?HEHI4
http://jaysullivan.org/socal/alumrpa2.htm
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© Project SOUND
Shaggy-haired alumroot: small, alpine
Size: < 1 ft tall 1-2 ft wide
Growth form: Mat-forming herbaceous
perennial Low-growing; flat rather than
mounded Spreads via rhizomes
Foliage: Leaves rounded, lobed, grape-like
in appearance
Roots: Relatively short.
© Project SOUND
Pastel pink flowers
Blooms: summer in the mountains; May-June at lower elevations
Flowers: Flower spikes more slender,
open than some species Floral tube flaring, pale pink;
petals even paler, and whole becoming quite pale with age
Very glandular-hairy Attracts hummingbirds
Seeds: small, dark brown in dry capsule
© Project SOUND
Shade & drainage Soils: Texture: well-drained, rocky,
but tolerates clay pH: slightly acidic (5.0-7.0)
Light: Part-shade to shade; no hot
afternoon sun; heat tolerant
Water: Winter: good; supplement Summer: occasional to
regular; Zone 2-3 probably optimal to keep foliage green.
Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils; ½ strength for pot-grown plants.
Other: prune out dead leaves, stems; watch for mealybugs, mildew.
© Project SOUND
Small Heucheras Borders; shady, narrow places Rock/crevice gardens In dry-stone walls and other
places with crevices In containers
©2009 Thomas Stoughton
©2002 Charles E. Jones ©2003 Charles E. Jones
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Heuchera hirsutissima 'Santa Rosa'
Originally collected in the mountains near Palm Springs, CA (~ 8,700 ft.).
Low mounds of scalloped leaves
Showy 1 ft. spikes of reddish pink (or white?) flowers in late spring.
Best in part sun; very well drained soils with occasional to moderate water
Cold hardy to -20 degrees F.
Suncrest Growers propagates – Try Deep Roots or International Nurseries (they could probably order)
© Project SOUND
Heucheras as medicinal plants
Roots most common part used Primarily used as an astringent
Control bleeding – cuts, abrasions Skin wash (for sores/rashes and as a skin
toner) Eye wash Cramps; baby’s colic (also for animals) Mouth wash for sore throat, mouth sores Horses’ saddle sores
Other (general) uses: General tonic Fever ‘heart troubles’ ‘liver troubles’ Venereal diseases
© Project SOUND
https://waysofthewhorl.wordpress.com/2011/04/03/natural-dyeing-take-one-alum-mordanting-with-heuchera-plants/
H. rubescens: another unique Heuchera
© Project SOUND
http://tchester.org/plants/analysis/heuchera/heuchera_socal.html#pix
© Project SOUND
*Pink alumroot – Heuchera rubescens
©2002 Larry Blakely
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Native to the west: SE OR south to CA; east to southern ID, CO then south to NV, UT, AZ, NM, N. Mexico
In S. CA, grows in Peninsular Ranges, Riverside/San Diego Counties.
Dry, rocky places; 6000-11,000 ft.
© Project SOUND
*Pink alumroot – Heuchera rubescens
Gary A. Monroe, hosted by the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/cgi-bin/get_cpn.pl?HERU
http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250065957
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/California_Coast_Ranges.png
Sect. Rhodoheuchera
© Project SOUND
• Subsect. Hemsleyanae (Sierra Madre of Mexico)• H. longipetala• H. acutifolia• H. mexicana
• Subsect. Rosendahliae (northern Sierra Madre Occidentale)• H. rosendahlii• H. wellsiae
• Subsect. Rubescentes• H. rubescens• H. parishii (may fit better in the following section)
• Subsect. Elegantes (Transverse Ranges of California, and the nearby Laguna Mountains)
• H. abramsii• H. elegans• H. caespitosa• H. hirsutissima• H. brevistaminea• H. pulchella (placement tentative)
• Subsect. Sanguineae (primarily Sierra Madre Occidental, outliers in the northernmost Sierra Madre Oriental, southernmost Basin and Range)
• H. lakelae• H. sanguinea
Mountains: U.S. West and Mexico
Sierra California (Baja, Mexico) and the Peninsular Ranges are contiguous
These and the Transverse Ranges are a result of plate tectonics
© Project SOUNDhttps://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b9/Geographic_Map_of_Mexico.jpg
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Usa_edcp_relief_location_map.png
© Project SOUND
Pink alumroot: tidy, mat-like perennial
Size: ~6 inches tall 1-2 ft wide
Growth form: Small mound, becoming mat-like Very low-growing, but some
variability in size, leaf characteristics
Foliage: Small, medium to dark green,
rounded leaves Great variability in hairiness
Roots: relatively short roots
Sheri Hagwood, hosted by the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
© Br. Alfred Brousseau, Saint Mary's College.
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© Project SOUND
Pink & white flowers
Blooms: April to Sept. along it’s wide range. Likely April-June at lower elevations. L.A. County.
Flowers: On slender, 1 ft. stalks Small flowers are pink/white;
not as showy as some, but pleasant
Flowers bell-shaped, with exserted stamens; hairy
Great for hummingbirds
Seeds: small dark seeds in dry capsule
Vegetative reproduction: via short rhizomes
©2000 Gary A. Monroe
©2002 Larry Blakely
© Project SOUND
Plant Requirements Soils:
Texture: very well-drained pH: slightly acidic (5.0-7.0)
Light: shade to part-shade; no hot afternoon sun
Water: Winter: needs plenty Summer: best with regular
water; Water Zone 2-3 to 3.
Fertilizer: none; likes poor soils, but OK with regular garden practices. ½ strength yearly in containers.
Other: Inorganic mulch Consider planting on slope or
near rocks
©2009 Gary A. Monroe
Sheri Hagwood, hosted by the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
© Project SOUND
Small perennial As an attractive pot plant, along
or mixed pot In rock gardens, crevices Around a shady birdbath Small, evergreen groundcover Borders for planted beds; along
pathways©2009 Gary A. Monroe
©2002 Larry Blakely ©2011 Barry Breckling
Heuchera rubescens 'Yosemite'
Natural cultivar
Clusters of small white flowers atop 1 foot tall stalks appear in spring.
Leaves are roundish and lobed.
Wonderful perennial for a woodland garden or under oaks.
Part-shade to shade; occasional water
Available at Theodore Payne & through El Nativo Growers
© Project SOUND
http://www.easttennesseewildflowers.com/gallery/index.php/California-2012---Yosemite-Mammoth-Lakes
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Resources on gardening with Heucheras
© Project SOUND
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51jQvNC6GgL._SX336_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg
http://www.finegardening.com/book-giveaway-container-gardening-all-seasons
Other Heuchera Resources
Heuchera Research site – Ryan Folk https://sites.google.com/site/ryanheuchera/home
Phylogenetic relationships and character evolution in Heuchera (Saxifragaceae) on the basis of multiple nuclear loci - Ryan A. Folk and John V. Freudensteinhttp://www.amjbot.org/content/101/9/1532.full
© Project SOUND
2016 – ‘Green Oases in Dry Gardens’
© Project SOUNDhttp://www.bayareaecogardens.org/GWImage.php?image=398&source=gg&index=11&page=2